What to Expect at ComNet26
Ideas,
Insights,
Inspiration,
Joy
〰️
Ideas, Insights, Inspiration, Joy 〰️
ComNet26 San Diego
Real community. Greater impact. Together.
250 Years of Leadership in Connection
This year marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence. Think about that: Franklin, Adams, Washington, Jefferson—and countless others—formed one of history’s first leadership networks. They shared ideas, debated strategies, and built consensus across distances and limitations we can barely imagine today.
ComNet26 carries that same spirit: a network of leaders in communication and social change, coming together to exchange bold ideas, learn from each other, and create impact. Here, you’re part of a tradition—of curiosity, courage, and connection. And yes, we also know how to have a good time.
Join 1,000 Communications Leaders
Three days of learning, inspiration, joy, and real-world connections.
At ComNet26, you’ll:
Spark Ideas – Hear expert keynotes and participate in learning labs designed to ignite new thinking.
Gain Insights – Explore 70+ real-world case studies from peers, full of actionable lessons.
Find Inspiration – Connect with leaders who are shaping the field, exchanging stories, strategies, and sparks of creativity.
Experience Joy – Celebrate your work, build friendships, enjoy waterfront views, and yes, a little beach time at our Welcome Reception on Silver Strand Beach.
Whether this is your first ComNet or your tenth, you’ll leave energized, equipped, and connected—ready to bring what you’ve learned back to your team and your field.
Why ComNet?
The Communications Network brings together communicators, storytellers, strategists, and community builders from foundations and nonprofits worldwide.
When leaders connect across programs and sectors, they become smarter, stronger, and more effective. ComNet is where those connections happen, and where joy, curiosity, and human energy drive learning as much as any session.
By the numbers:
96% rated ComNet excellent or very good
95% found sessions relevant and useful
97% valued our strong culture of community and support
Voices from the field:
Who Attends?
Leaders from foundations and nonprofits across five continents and nearly all 50 states, including:
Foundations: Ford, Gates, Rockefeller, MacArthur, Prebys, Kenneth Rainin, Hewlett, Robert Wood Johnson
Nonprofits: StoryCorps, NPR, Democracy Fund, Truth Initiative, United We Dream, Planned Parenthood, YMCA, World Wildlife Fund
Cultural & Media Organizations: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Texas Tribune, LA Philharmonic, Sesame Workshop
Schedule at a Glance
Tuesday, September 29 (Optional)
Field Trips & Day of Service (various times)
Network Leaders Workshop, 2–4pm (invite only)
Tip: Arrive early for pre-conference fun, volunteer opportunities, and casual networking
Wednesday, September 30
Pre-Conference Panels, 10am–4:30pm
Field Trips & Day of Service (various times)
Welcome Reception, 6–9pm, Silver Strand State Beach (20-minute shuttle from hotel)—celebrate, connect, laugh
Thursday, October 1
Keynotes to spark bold thinking
ShowCase Posters: 70+ case studies from peers
Learning Labs: expert-led deep dives
Case Study Sessions: real lessons learned
Networking @ Night happy hour
Friday, October 2
Keynotes, posters, and learning sessions, 8:30am–12:30pm
Closing program wraps at 12:30pm (Flights after 3pm recommended—don’t miss a moment!)
Meals:
Welcome Reception: light food & drinks
Thursday: breakfast, lunch, light snacks & drinks
Friday: breakfast
The ComNet Vibe
Be cool. Be kind. Show respect. Give grace. Offer help. Seek support. Include everyone. Ask questions. Please.
ComNet is about connection, not commerce. Please honor our no solicitation policy and code of conduct.
Host Committee
Our deep gratitude to these good folks for their help shaping the conference, ensuring everyone feels welcome, and making sure there’s room for fun and celebration:
Stay Connected Year-Round
Join The Communications Network to continue the learning, the laughter, and the community year-round.
